LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-Lagos State Governor , Babajide Sanwo-Olu today inaugurated the Makarios Aquatic Park in Aiyeteru, Ibeju, situated along the Lekki-Epe Expressway.
The N6bn project is celebrated as the first multi-sensory aquatic park in sub-Saharan Africa.
The park is designed to deliver a one-of-a-kind recreational experience and become a key attraction, stimulating tourism and bolstering the local economy.
The project, conceived and developed by Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo, demonstrates a dedication to turning the region into a top destination for both locals and tourists.
Ashimolowo, an entrepreneur, is the founder of Kingsway International Christian Centre (KICC) and serves as the Chairman of Makarios Luxury Properties Limited.
Sanwo-Olu, along with numerous dignitaries, was treated to a breathtaking display of water jets synchronized with musical rhythms. He described the experience as “power of imagination and bringing imagination to reality”.
He said, “With those things that we see in other parts of the world, the inspiring landscape we hear about, bringing them here, the least we can do is to acknowledge and appreciate it. As your governor, we are proud of this masterpiece this evening.
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“For us, it is about being an enabler of the greater things to happen. As Lagos continues to be home for all of us, it is also a future we all aspire to. Lagos is not only growing, but it is also a very resilient and forward-looking state.
“When we see investments from our citizens or foreigners coming to the city, we are always very encouraged to support those investments. I assure you that this is the beginning of a lot of things that will be happening at the Makarios.”
The governor praised Ashimolowo for his significant investment, highlighting that the Lekki corridor is the fastest-growing in Africa.
He noted that luxury living and properties will continue to distinguish this area from others.
“Putting this here to salivate the development that is to come here is very inspirational,” Sanwo-Olu added.
Sharing the inspiration behind the Makarios Aquatic Park, Ashimolowo disclosed his vision to turn Lagos into a global hub of sophistication and leisure.
He explained that the concept stemmed from his experience in Dubai during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As a preacher and author, he envisioned reimagining waterfront living, bringing the essence of Dubai’s iconic waterfront to Lagos, Nigeria.
Additionally, he noted that whenever he visits Nigeria with his grandchildren, they quickly become bored due to the lack of places to take them.
“It became obvious to me that I could do something and be a part of the legacy. I wanted to be part of the solution and answer this question. People wanted to come to Nigeria but there are no tourist places to visit.
That’s what gave birth to this place. I am very glad it has happened. I have lived in the United Kingdom for 40 years —and I still live there. I don’t want to be part of those Nigerians in the Diaspora who are always lamenting. That is what most of them do. I want to be part of solving problems,” said Ashimolowo.
He described the Makarios Aquatic Park as an uncommon, unusual water display show. “A symphony of water, sound, and music, mesmerizing to the eyes, to the mind and the spirit. Firstly, you see water dancing, secondly, you see water responding to music, thirdly you see water mixed with laser light and fourthly you see water rise,” he stated.
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The Makarios Water Fountain stands out as one of the few with a water screen in the middle. It boasts 180 pumps that create a mesmerizing water screen shooting approximately 12 meters high, with no surrounding buildings to obstruct.
As the water rises, it converges with the cascading water to create a spectacular visual display.
The Makarios Ecosystem encompasses both business and leisure districts, designed with the upper middle class and upwardly mobile individuals in mind.
In addition to the Aquatic Park, the Makarios Luxury Place will be a community where work, leisure, and luxury seamlessly blend together.
Ongoing developments include an iconic shopping mall spanning 8000 square meters, a luxurious hotel, and the construction of a 10-storey Imperial Towers featuring over 800 living spaces, including chic apartments, elegant terraced homes, and detached houses.
“Makarios is designed to be more than just a residence; it’s an experience. Our vision is to offer a lifestyle that transcends boundaries, creating a world where dreams meet reality,” he said.
The Makarios Aquatic Park will be accessible to the public starting Saturday, June 15, 2024.